FT News Briefing Untold: Toxic Legacy, Ep. 1: Silent Danger
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Oct 25, 2025 
In this compelling discussion, Sylvia and her daughter Lily unveil their harrowing experience with animal deaths linked to suspected lead poisoning on their West Wales farm. They reveal shocking health impacts and the dark history of a nearby disused lead mine. Dr. Andrea Sartorius, an ecotoxicologist, shares her groundbreaking research uncovering elevated lead levels in soil and water, stressing the potential dangers to surrounding communities. Together, they shine a light on a silent epidemic and the urgent need for awareness and action.
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Farm Family Poisoned By Old Lead Mine
- Sylvia moved to a West Wales farm and watched animals die mysteriously over months.
- Vets later found horses had four times expected lead levels and Sylvia and her daughter tested high too.
Contamination Spreads Far From Mine Sites
- Dr Andrea Sartorius found exceptionally high lead in pastures and animal tissues near abandoned mines.
- Contamination extended far beyond mine sites into surrounding countryside and food chains.
Rapid Soil Testing Reveals Unfixable Contamination
- Professor Mark Macklin used a portable X‑ray gun to test residents' soil at a village hall event.
- He told one resident her soil was contaminated and explained remediation isn't possible, only management.